Tether examines a relationship that, outside fleeting exposure at major athletics events, is unknown to most – that of a blind runner and their tethered guide. Director Bethany Pitts relishes the unique subject matter, confident it will take audiences ‘to places they haven’t been before. It’s an ambitious new play that tells a story I haven’t seen on stage.’

It tells the story of Mark, an athlete who becomes a guide for blind marathon runner Becky after he fails to qualify for the 2012 Olympic Games. The play required months of research with athletes including Robert Matthews and Noel Thatcher, eight-time British Paralympic gold medallist and five-time British Paralympic gold medallist respectively. Author Isley Lynn admits ‘When I decided to write a play about blind running, I couldn’t have been further out of my depth – I’m fully sighted and not sporty at all, but I was absolutely compelled to tell a story about this fascinating world.’

Tether is a production about trust, friendship, ambition and glory played out by just two actors, Lee Drage and visually impaired Maisie Greenwood. It questions whether we are selfish at heart and asks can you be fully happy helping others succeed? With the 2012 London Paralympics the first time athlete guides received medals and Rio 2016 just months away it is a timely piece.

Underbelly Cowgate, 0844 545 8252, 8–30 Aug (not 17), 2pm, £9–£10 (£8–£9). Previews 6 & 7 Aug, £6.